Virginia Police Launches Facial Recognition with Oversight and Transparency

Published Date : 6/26/2025 

The Bristol Virginia Police Department has introduced a facial recognition technology program under stringent state regulations, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and civil liberty protections. The initiative, approved by Virginia law, uses Clearview AI and includes annual audits, limited access, and strict data handling protocols to balance public safety with privacy concerns. 

In a significant step toward modernizing law enforcement, the Bristol Virginia Police Department has launched a facial recognition technology (FRT) program that adheres to strict regulatory frameworks. This initiative, part of a broader trend in Virginia, aims to enhance investigative efficiency while prioritizing civil liberties. The program, which uses Clearview AI's algorithm, is governed by a comprehensive policy that ensures transparency and minimizes misuse. n nBristol, a city of under 20,000 residents near the Tennessee border, is one of the few Virginia agencies to adopt FRT with a focus on accountability. The department’s approach contrasts with others that have faced criticism for opaque practices. By making its policy publicly accessible and implementing annual oversight, Bristol sets a precedent for responsible use of biometric tools. n nThe program’s technology, approved by the Virginia Division of Purchases and Supply, is accessed through a partnership with LexisNexis Risk Solutions. Officers can submit images from security cameras or witnesses to receive potential matches. However, the system is not linked to real-time surveillance or body cameras, and searches are limited to 18 specific investigative purposes outlined in the policy. n nVirginia’s 2022 law, Senate Bill 741, mandates that agencies meet strict accuracy and bias standards before deploying FRT. The state requires NIST-tested algorithms with at least 98% true positive accuracy and minimal demographic bias. As of 2024, 15 algorithms have been approved for use across Virginia’s law enforcement. n nChief Byron Ashbrook of the Bristol Police Department emphasized that the program is designed to provide investigative leads, not definitive identifications. He clarified that Clearview AI is not used as probable cause, aligning with state law and departmental guidelines. The system’s restricted access—limited to two authorized officers—ensures that searches are conducted with oversight and documentation. n nTraining and compliance are central to the program. Only officers with advanced certification can use the system, and all queries require manual verification. The department also prohibits mobile searches via personal devices, mandating secure, department-issued laptops. These measures aim to prevent unauthorized access and data misuse. n nThe policy includes annual audits, semi-annual compliance reviews, and adherence to Fair Information Practice Principles. Bristol’s approach contrasts with jurisdictions that have faced lawsuits over biased or inaccurate FRT use. By integrating transparency into its governance, the department seeks to build public trust while addressing concerns about algorithmic bias and government overreach. n nData sharing with external agencies is restricted to those with memorandums of understanding and training. Results are treated as investigative leads, not evidence, and cannot be used without further verification. The department also ensures that no images are stored unless part of an active investigation, with strict protocols for data retention and purging. n nLegal compliance extends beyond internal policies. Bristol submitted its vendor selection to the state’s Division of Supply and Purchases and reports annual use data to the Department of Criminal Justice Services. This includes query numbers, match rates, and demographic details, ensuring accountability and alignment with state requirements. n nThe program’s framework reflects a balance between innovation and ethics. By prioritizing transparency, training, and oversight, the Bristol Police Department aims to set a benchmark for responsible FRT use in law enforcement. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: How does the Bristol Police Department's facial recognition program work?

A: Officers submit images from security cameras or witnesses to Clearview AI's algorithm via a LexisNexis account. The system returns potential matches, which are treated as investigative leads, not definitive identifications.

Q: What safeguards are in place to prevent misuse of the program?

A: Only two trained officers have access, searches require documentation, and the system is not connected to real-time surveillance. Annual audits and strict data handling protocols ensure compliance with state law.

Q: Is Clearview AI's facial recognition technology reliable?

A: The algorithm has undergone NIST testing and meets Virginia’s 98% accuracy standard. However, the department emphasizes that results are not used as probable cause and require manual verification.

Q: How is data handled to protect privacy?

A: Images are not stored unless part of an active investigation. Data sharing with external agencies requires memorandums of understanding, and results are treated as leads, not evidence.

Q: What legal requirements does the program meet?

A: The program complies with Virginia’s Senate Bill 741, which mandates accuracy, bias reduction, and transparency. Bristol also submits annual use data to the state and undergoes regular audits. 

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